Energy Assistance (EA)
Energy Assistance is intended for emergency situations
- Agency
- Virginia Department of Social Services
- Type
- State Resource
- Phone
- 804-726-7000, 800-552-3431
- Application Period
- Income Limit
Energy Assistance is intended for emergency situations. It helps eligible households when Fuel Assistance or other resources cannot meet the need.
Energy Assistance is intended for emergency situations. It helps eligible households when Fuel Assistance or other resources cannot meet the need.
Eligibility Requirements
The program helps eligible households facing emergencies such as lack of heat, utility cut-off, or inoperable/unsafe heating equipment.
Impact Reports
Energy Assistance Program Impact Report 2021
6/15/2021 | Coverage: state
This report outlines the effectiveness of the Energy Assistance Program in Virginia, detailing its role in supporting low-income households and fostering community resilience during economic challenges.
Source: Virginia Department of Social Services
Coverage Area: state
Navigating Financial Hardship: Energy Assistance and Its Community Benefits
11/12/2021 | Coverage: national
This report evaluates how energy assistance programs can empower individuals and strengthen community ties while addressing the challenges of rising living costs.
Source: Center for Law and Social Policy
Coverage Area: national
The Economics of Energy Assistance: A Case Study in Virginia
9/30/2020 | Coverage: state
This case study provides a comprehensive analysis of how energy assistance alleviates financial pressure on households, especially amidst rising costs of living and stagnant wages.
Source: National Academies Press
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
American Rescue Plan Act
3/11/2021Included significant funding for energy assistance programs to help families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act
1/1/2010Inclusion of provisions aimed at protecting consumers and ensuring stability in energy pricing, impacting assistance programs.
Energy Policy Act
1/1/2005Legislation that aimed to address energy conservation, production, and tax incentives, affecting state energy assistance programs.
Reauthorization of LIHEAP
10/1/1996Renewal and enhancement of LIHEAP funding and provisions to better support states, including Virginia.
Creation of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
1/1/1981Establishment of LIHEAP to assist low-income households in meeting their home energy needs.
FAQ
Applications for Energy Assistance can be submitted online through the Virginia Department of Social Services website or by visiting your local Department of Social Services office. Ensure to fill out all necessary information accurately to avoid delays.
Reference: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/index.html
Applications may have deadlines; check with your local office for specific dates.
Energy Assistance (EA) in Virginia is a program designed to help low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills. The program aims to ensure that families do not suffer from extreme temperatures due to unaffordable energy costs.
Reference: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/index.html
Eligibility for the program is subject to state guidelines and may vary based on individual circumstances.
Energy Assistance applications typically open in early November and close in mid-December for heating assistance, while cooling assistance applications are generally accepted from May to August. It is important to check specific dates each year as they may vary.
To qualify for the Energy Assistance program in Virginia, applicants must meet specific income guidelines, have a social security number, and demonstrate a need for assistance with energy costs. Eligibility may vary based on household size and income.
Before applying for Energy Assistance, ensure you have the following items ready:
- Proof of income for all household members
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- A copy of your current energy bill
- Identification for all adult members
Having these documents ready can help expedite your application process.
If you think you may qualify, take the following steps:
- Visit the Virginia Department of Social Services website for more information.
- Contact your local community action agency for assistance with the application process.
- Prepare your necessary documentation as listed above.
Taking these steps can facilitate your application and help you receive assistance more quickly.
Reference: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/index.html
